Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Nothing beats a warm bowl of loaded baked potato soup on a chilly night. Remember those evenings huddled around the table with family, each spoonful bringing a satisfying blend of flavors? It’s that nostalgia that draws everyone to this classic comfort dish. The creamy texture, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh chives create a delightful combination that warms both body and spirit.

In my own kitchen, loaded baked potato soup often finds its way to the dinner table. It’s not just the rich flavors that make it special; it’s the memories forged between loved ones. Preparing the soup creates an inviting atmosphere, and the aroma of onions and garlic fills the air, drawing everyone closer. This dish resonates with the joy of sharing good food, and each bowl serves as a reminder of the warmth of home.

Loaded baked potato soup offers more than just flavor; it represents comfort and community. Every ingredient plays a role, transforming simple potatoes into a dish that feels like a warm hug. From family gatherings to cozy nights in, this soup brings people together. Let’s dive deeper into this delicious recipe and explore how to make your own perfect bowl of loaded baked potato soup.

Part 1 — Understanding Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fundamentals

Loaded baked potato soup is a wonderful amalgamation of flavors that reflects the heart of comfort food. At its core, it combines creamy elements with the savory notes of bacon and cheese. This dish stands out not only for its taste but also for its versatility. Every household can adjust the recipe to make it their own, adding personal touches to create a unique bowl of goodness.

The texture is equally important. While the soup is rich and smooth, having chunks of tender potatoes adds a satisfying bite that balances out the creaminess. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful blend of textures that keeps diners coming back for more.

Preparation/Setup

Starting the preparation is simple and straightforward. Begin by gathering all the ingredients—olive oil, bacon, onions, garlic, chicken broth, russet potatoes, and the rich additions of cream, cheese, and sour cream. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process seamless and enjoyable.

Setting up your cooking space is just as crucial. Use a large pot or Dutch oven that can accommodate the entire soup mixture comfortably. This will allow the ingredients to meld beautifully without any spilling or overcrowding, ensuring that your loaded baked potato soup turns out perfect.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the grease in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, salt, and black pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is heated through. Do not boil.
9. Stir in sour cream until well combined.
10. Serve hot, garnished with reserved bacon, additional cheddar cheese, and fresh chives.

Part 2 — Techniques for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Technique

Creating loaded baked potato soup requires a few key techniques to achieve that rich creamy texture. The process starts with sautéing onions and garlic until they are fragrant. This aromatic base builds the flavor foundation for the soup.

Blending part of the soup adds a velvety consistency, creating harmony between chunks of potatoes and creamy elements. Using an immersion blender can make this step easier, ensuring a smooth and evenly mixed texture without the hassle of transferring hot liquid.

Tips/Tricks

• For extra flavor, consider letting the bacon grease cool slightly before adding the onions. This enriches the base of the soup and enhances the overall taste.
• Always season carefully. The amount of salt you might need could depend on the saltiness of your chicken broth. Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance.
• When blending, let the content cool a few minutes to avoid splatter and burns.

Part 3 — Perfecting Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfecting Results

Achieving the ultimate loaded baked potato soup means paying attention to cooking time. Make sure the potatoes cook just enough to become tender, but don’t overcook them into mush. The ideal texture adds to the charm of the dish.

Incorporating freshly grated cheddar cheese will melt better and provide a rich flavor compared to pre-shredded options. Additionally, adding cheese gradually during cooking helps create a luscious, creamy consistency throughout the soup.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your soup seems too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if you prefer a chunkier soup, leave more potatoes unblended for texture.

Feel free to experiment with toppings. Scallions or crispy fried onions can provide extra flavor and a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup. Adding different types of cheese can also introduce new dimensions to the flavor profile.

Part 4 — Serving and Storing Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving/Presentation

Serving loaded baked potato soup can be a delightful experience. Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of crunchy bacon, extra shredded cheese, and fresh chives. This not only elevates the presentation but also invites your guests to dig in.

Pair the soup with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. The contrast of textures adds to the overall enjoyment, making every bite satisfying.

Pairings/Storage

While loaded baked potato soup shines on its own, it complements a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crunchy side salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.

Storing any leftovers is straightforward. Seal the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

Loaded baked potato soup embodies the essence of cozy, comforting meals that bring people together. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is a staple for any home cook. The combination of simple ingredients results in a soup that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. From preparation to serving, every step creates an opportunity to cherish the act of cooking. This beloved dish promises to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire, ensuring you’ll enjoy it time and again.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A warm and creamy loaded baked potato soup blended with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, perfect for chilly nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the grease in the pot.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, salt, and black pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is heated through. Do not boil.
9. Stir in sour cream until well combined.
10. Serve hot, garnished with reserved bacon, additional cheddar cheese, and fresh chives.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the bacon grease cool slightly before adding the onions. Taste as you go to ensure seasoning is perfect.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: soup, loaded baked potato, comfort food, creamy soup, family meal